Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Theoretical Background Epidemiological studies have revealed a high prevalence of depressive symptoms and an increased prevalence of suicidal ideation among refugees. However, sufficient research has yet to be conducted on protective factors. Objectives This study investigates the potential protective role of religiosity in relation to depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation among refugee women. It also examines, whether these associations differ, depending on whether religion was a reason for flight. Methods A total of 103 refugee women living in reception centers in Germany completed an adapted Arabic religiosity scale. The depression subscale of the Hopkins Symptom Checklist (HSCL) and a single item assessing suicidal ideation were also employed. Results A total of 78% of the sample reported increased levels of depression, and 13.6% reported suicidal thoughts. Religiosity was found to be significantly and negatively correlated with depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation. This correlation was higher among women who reported that religion was not the reason for their flight. However, regression analyses revealed no significant interaction between religiosity and religion as a reason for flight in predicting depressive symptoms or suicidal ideation. Conclusion In the context of flight, we conclude that strong religious ties are positively associated with mental health. However, our findings do not provide sufficient evidence that religion as a reason for flight moderates this association.
Source: Journal of Migration and Health
Language: English
Topic: Migration, Health and Trauma
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,670
OpenAlex ID: W7225387751